Mohenjo-Daro, meaning “Mound of the Dead”, is one of the oldest and most advanced cities of the ancient Indus Valley Civilization (2500 BCE). Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this archaeological marvel in Sindh, Pakistan, offers a rare glimpse into the urban planning, culture, and lifestyle of an ancient civilization that thrived over 4,500 years ago. Often compared to Mesopotamia and Egypt, Mohenjo-Daro remains one of the greatest mysteries of human history, with its well-planned streets, advanced drainage systems, and enigmatic script.

Elevation

46 / metres

Weather

Mohenjo-Daro has a hot desert climate with scorching summers, mild winters, and minimal rainfall. Spring and autumn are moderate, making these seasons ideal for visiting the site.

Overview

Mohenjo-Daro, in Sindh, Pakistan, is a major archaeological site of the Indus Valley Civilization. Known for its advanced urban planning, grid streets, and drainage systems, it provides invaluable insights into one of the world’s oldest and most sophisticated ancient civilizations.

Tour Plans

Trip Name

Days

View Trip

13-Day Pakistan UNESCO Heritage & Indus Valley Tour

13 Days / 12 Nights

Plan your own tour according to your preferences!

Create a tour that fits your style. Choose destinations, adjust duration, pick activities, and personalize every detail. Our experts design a journey perfectly matched to your comfort, interests, and travel goals.

History

Mohenjo-Daro, located in Sindh, Pakistan, is one of the world’s earliest major urban settlements, dating back to circa 2500 BCE. Part of the Indus Valley Civilization, it was a well-planned city with streets, drainage systems, and sophisticated architecture. The site provides insights into ancient urban life, trade, and culture, making it a significant archaeological and historical treasure of South Asia.

The Four Seasons

Mohenjo-Daro experiences a hot desert climate with four main seasons. Spring (March–May) is warm, while summer (June–September) is extremely hot, often exceeding 40°C. Autumn (October–November) is mild and pleasant, and winter (December–February) is cool, with temperatures rarely dropping below 5°C. The region receives minimal rainfall, making it dry throughout the year.

Food & Cuisines

While Mohenjo-Daro is an archaeological site rather than a living city, nearby Sindhi cuisine offers traditional dishes like Sindhi biryani, sai bhaji, and koki. Street foods such as samosas, pakoras, and jalebi are widely enjoyed. Travelers visiting the site can experience the rich flavors of Sindhi culinary heritage in nearby towns and markets, reflecting the local culture and traditions.

Arts & Crafts

Mohenjo-Daro showcases the advanced craftsmanship of the Indus Valley Civilization. Artifacts include ceramic pottery, stone seals, beads, jewelry, and figurines. These items reflect highly skilled artisanship and sophisticated designs. Modern Sindhi crafts in nearby regions continue this heritage, with handicrafts, embroidery, and pottery inspired by ancient motifs, giving insight into the continuity of art and culture in the area.

Demographics

Mohenjo-Daro itself is an archaeological site, so it has no permanent population. The surrounding areas in Larkana District, Sindh, are home to rural communities primarily engaged in agriculture and trade. The local population speaks Sindhi and participates in cultural practices and festivals that preserve the traditions of the Sindh region.

Attractions

The Great Bath – The Oldest Public Water Tank

One of the most fascinating structures, the Great Bath is an early example of public water management, believed to have been used for ritualistic purification. Its waterproof brick construction still amazes archaeologists today.

The Granary – The Storage Hub of the City

A massive brick-walled structure, believed to be used for storing grain, indicating an advanced economic system and agricultural surplus

The Dancing Girl Statue – A Symbol of Indus Culture

A small yet iconic bronze statue depicting a young girl in a dancing posture, showcasing the artistic skills and cultural vibrancy of the Indus people.

The Priest-King Statue – A Mystery Unsolved

A highly detailed limestone sculpture believed to represent a priest or a ruler, showcasing the civilization’s craftsmanship and social hierarchy.

The Advanced Drainage System

One of Mohenjo-Daro’s greatest engineering achievements – a complex network of covered drains, brick-lined streets, and private wells, highlighting the city's highly organized infrastructure.

The Citadel – The Power Center

A fortified area believed to have been the administrative and religious center, housing important structures like the Great Bath and large assembly halls.

Interesting Facts

Mohenjo-Daro, meaning “Mound of the Dead,” is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It featured advanced urban planning, grid streets, and one of the world’s earliest drainage systems. The Great Bath indicates the importance of ritual bathing. Artifacts like seals and jewelry reveal a sophisticated civilization that existed over 4,500 years ago, making it a key site in human history.

Valleys